Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Well, Hello There!

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Robyn here, taking over as an editor for Craft Gossip’s Recycled Crafts section. I’m here to bring you the greatest news, tutorials, interviews, and so much more in the realm of recycled crafts.

But before we get started with all the great posts I’ve already got planned, I’d love to hear from you all … what sorts of crafts do you make with recycled items? What sort of craft ideas are you most interested in hearing about? Give it to me people, and don’t hold back! I’ll take all your advice and suggestions, and tons of great new posts, links and more!

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Comments

  1. Hello There! I occasionally reuse old clothes and have just done a post entitled ‘two skirts equals one bag’. So I guess I would love to see textile crafts but I love your blog anyway. It certainly keeps the mind inspired. Thankyou and welcome. Cherrie

  2. I am especially interested in crafts using recycled paper–card making, collage, zines, etc. Looking forward to your posts… 🙂

  3. I love to use old floral wire and old wire hangers to make jewelry like my Egyptian Coil Bracelet-Thing! Please see my blog. I love recycled crafts so much! You have given me so many great new ideas for recycling and upcycling everything I see!

  4. I am so excited with this website. I try to recycle everything I see :). I will look forward to your emails to get new ideas. Congratulations on becoming editor.

  5. Robyn, congrats and we look forward to seeing all the fun stuff you’re going to share with us! I coordinate the Carnival of Green Crafts for Crafting A Green World. If you’d be interested in hosting sometime, please let me know.

  6. Robyn, looking forward to new ideas for recycled crafts. I’m new to this blog/newsletter although I’ve been snooping here for a while. I try to recycle everything or at least make something old into something new. My current fave is using yarn leftover from my friend’s projects or what I buy at garage sales and such an make colorful, cute yarn dolls with my Knifty Knitter (it’s not really cheating is it?) which will be collected and sent overseas and also to foster children in my area.

Have you read?

DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with Rustic Stems – Upcycled Farmhouse Decor

If you love sunflowers but wish they could last longer than a week in a vase, I have just the project for you. With a handful of thrifted mason jar lids, a little paint, and a dash of creativity, you can make your own DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with rustic stems — the kind that brighten your home all year long.

This project blends farmhouse charm with eco-friendly upcycling, making it perfect for crafters who love to give old materials a new life. Whether you display them in a vase, turn them into a wreath, or pop them into potted plants, these handmade sunflowers bring sunshine into any space.

Why You’ll Love This Sunflower Craft

  • Budget-friendly: Most supplies can be thrifted, recycled, or found at home. 
  • Customisable: Change the petal colour, stem style, or centre texture to suit your décor. 
  • Durable décor: Unlike fresh flowers, these won’t wilt or fade. 
  • Eco-conscious: A clever way to upcycle mason jar lids and scrap fabric. 

Supplies You’ll Need

To make your own mason jar lid sunflowers, gather these simple materials:

  • Mason jar rings (any size – thrifted or recycled) 
  • Yellow spray paint or acrylic craft paint 
  • Brown felt, burlap, or textured fabric for the flower centres 
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks 
  • Wooden dowels, sticks, or recycled chopsticks for stems 
  • Green floral tape or green craft paint 
  • Optional: raffia, ribbon, faux greenery, grapevine wreath form 

Step-by-Step: How to Make DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with Rustic Stems

Step 1: Prep Your Mason Jar Lids

Wash and dry the lids thoroughly. If they have rust spots, give them a quick sanding for a smooth surface. This will help your paint adhere better.

Step 2: Paint the Petals

Lay out your lids on newspaper or cardboard. Spray paint them in a bright sunflower yellow. Two light coats give the best coverage.
 Tip: For a more natural, layered look, dry-brush with mustard or orange tones after the base coat dries.

Step 3: Create the Sunflower Centre

Cut a circle of brown felt, burlap, or textured fabric slightly larger than the inner opening of the lid.
 For extra detail, glue on small black buttons, beads, or seeds for a realistic sunflower centre.

Step 4: Assemble the Flower

Flip the lid over and hot glue the centre fabric to the back so it fills the ring’s opening.
 Press firmly to make sure it’s secure — especially if you’re making these for a wreath or outdoor display.

Step 5: Add the Stem

Glue a wooden dowel, twig, or recycled chopstick to the back of the lid.
 Wrap the stem in green floral tape for a smooth, finished look — or leave a twig unwrapped for a more rustic, natural style.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Tie a bow of raffia or ribbon around the stem. Glue on a couple of faux leaves for extra charm.
 If you’re making a bouquet, vary the stem lengths for a more natural arrangement.

Creative Ways to Use Your Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers

  • Rustic Vase Display: Arrange several sunflowers in a ceramic jug or glass mason jar. 
  • Farmhouse Wreath: Glue the flowers to a grapevine wreath form and hang on your front door. 
  • Garden Accents: Seal with an outdoor spray and stake in flower beds or planters. 
  • Gift Toppers: Make mini sunflowers for wrapping embellishments or party favours. 

 Tips for the Best Results

  • Use different jar ring sizes for varied petal shapes in your bouquet. 
  • Dry-brush the petal edges with orange paint for added depth and realism. 
  • Mix in a few “wild” stems with curled raffia or greenery for a fuller, more natural look. 

The Beauty of Upcycling

This DIY mason jar lid sunflower craft is proof that everyday items — even something as humble as a jar lid — can become something extraordinary.
 It’s not just about making something pretty; it’s about crafting something with a story, saving materials from the bin, and adding a burst of joy to your home.

So next time you spot a box of old jar lids at a thrift store, don’t pass them by. Pick them up and turn them into sunshine that never fades.